Have pain in neck and left arm and numbness in thumb. MRI shows multilevel Spondylosis. Recommendations?

My MRI Impression : Multilevel spondylosis , most severe at c5-6, extending to the left, with moderate to severe left neural foramina stenosis . My symptoms : pain lower left posterior neck when turning left, attempting to touch chin to chest or opposite, pain in left arm like a vice on mid-upper, and moderate numbness in left thumb , very painful to lay down for rest, most comfortable position sitting upright. Initial symptoms started 1 month ago while at work. To date I have had a steroid dose pak after inintial injury along with hydrocodone , and muscle relaxer. I ve been off work for a week now, no pain just occasional discomfort especially when waking. What is your recommended course of action at this point?

You have age related degenerative changes of spine with intervertebral disc prolapse more at C5-6 level.
Treatment modalities are physiotherapy and surgery.
For pain relief, ultrasound therapy and transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) can be given. Exercises can follow that.
Ozone ablation and radiofrequency ablation can also be done.
Cutaneous endoscopic disectomy can also be done.
Long term benefits of surgery and physiotherapy are same.
Get well soon.

Welcome to HCM.I would suggest that you use gabapentin/Pregabalin for the neuropathic pain,Physiotherapy and use of ultrasonic massage,Short wave diathermy and other procedures will help reduce the pain.use of low dose Amitriptyline has helped.I would further like to remove the narcotic analgesic for a NSAID which can be used for a longer period of time.Advice from a Neurosurgeon should be sought.

Hello,
Thanks for writing to us.
Your multilevel spondylosis is due to degenerative scanges in your cervical spine.I suggest you to consult a physical therapist.. The physical therapist will help you reduce your pain using stretches. The therapist will show you how to do exercises that make your neck muscles stronger.
You can take analgesic and muscle relaxant after discussing with your doctor.
You also need some life style modification like-
Do not sit for prolonged period of time in stressful postures
Do use firm collars while traveling
Do not lift heavy weights on head or back
Do not turn from your body but turn your body moving your feet first
Do turn to one side while getting up from lying down
Do the exercises prescribed regularly
Do use firm mattress, thin pillow or butterfly shaped pillow
Do not lie flat on your stomach.